Pilot Flying J, a leading name in travel centers, has officially announced the completion of its acquisition of seven Bosselman Travel Centers across the Midwest. This strategic move significantly enhances Pilot Flying J’s network, especially for professional drivers seeking reliable pilot fuel location options and comprehensive travel services. The acquisition from Bosselman Travel Centers Inc., initially planned and announced in November, was finalized, and these locations began operating under the Pilot Travel Centers banner on January 5th.
These newly acquired travel centers are strategically positioned across Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, and South Dakota. For professional drivers navigating the Upper Midwest, this expansion translates to reduced travel distances to access Pilot Flying J’s services. According to Jimmy Haslam, president and CEO of Pilot Flying J, these centers are designed with drivers in mind. This expansion reinforces Pilot Flying J’s commitment to serving the professional driving community by offering more accessible pilot fuel location and service points.
The agreement between Pilot Flying J and Bosselman Travel Centers extends beyond acquisitions. Bosselman’s reputable Boss Truck Shops repair facilities are set to expand their footprint by establishing locations in an additional 20 Pilot Flying J centers nationwide. This collaboration aims to provide crucial support for truck drivers in maintaining compliance with federal safety regulations, ultimately contributing to safer roads for everyone.
While Pilot Flying J integrates these seven travel centers into its network, Bosselman will continue to operate its Grand Island, Nebraska, travel center. This strategic sale allows Bosselman to sharpen its focus on its expanding Boss Truck Shops network and its full-service restaurant offerings. Notably, beloved restaurant brands such as Grandma Max’s Restaurants in Salina, Kansas, and Big Springs, Nebraska, Max’s Highway Diner in Des Moines (Altoona), Iowa, and the existing Boss Truck Shops at Des Moines (Altoona), Salina, Kansas, Rapid City, South Dakota, and Big Springs, Nebraska, will remain under Bosselman’s operation. The Hampton Inn in Colby, Kansas, is also part of Bosselman’s continued operations. Furthermore, the extensive Uni-Maxx Truck Care network, encompassing over 75 Boss Shops across the nation, will continue to serve the transportation industry under Bosselman’s guidance.
The specific locations now operating as Pilot Travel Centers include Des Moines (Altoona), Iowa; Colby, Kansas; Salina, Kansas; Rapid City, South Dakota; Big Springs, Nebraska; Wood River, Nebraska; and Elm Creek, Nebraska. Pilot Flying J is committed to enhancing the customer experience at these new locations. Plans are underway to broaden fast-food options, introduce diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) availability directly at the fuel pumps, integrate Pilot Flying J’s popular loyalty program, and upgrade shower and restroom facilities. These improvements are designed to ensure that both professional drivers and traveling motorists experience the consistent quality and amenities expected at Pilot Flying J locations nationwide.
Pilot Flying J, headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, proudly identifies as a “driver-driven company.” With over 550 retail locations across North America, this acquisition further solidifies their extensive reach. Beyond retail, Pilot Flying J stands as one of the largest wholesale fuel providers in the United States, delivering over 500 million gallons of fuel to a vast network of customers across 47 states and eight Canadian provinces.
Bosselman, with its headquarters in Grand Island, Nebraska, maintains a diverse portfolio including 46 Pump & Pantry convenience stores, hospitality services encompassing a Hampton Inn, Pump & Pantry Motels, and Motel 6 franchises, and a variety of dining and entertainment venues. Founded in 1948, Bosselman Companies has grown significantly, extending its operations across 20 states, and will now strategically focus on its core strengths following this sale to Pilot Flying J. This acquisition marks a significant development in the travel center landscape, offering enhanced services and convenience for travelers and professional drivers across the Midwest, thanks to the expanded pilot fuel location network now under Pilot Flying J.
